EQUILIBRIUM An exhibition of works by Alice Dass & U.U Pfister

About

Alice Dass and U.U Pfister are artists living with MS. Since 2005 they showcased work together in various exhibitions. Both were practising artists prior to their diagnosis with MS. This chronic condition presented Alice and U.U with challenges. They have responded by developing adaptable and flexible approaches to their work with different results. U.U Pfister's artwork is a reference to walls and landscapes, what they reveal and hide. Each work tells a story about history, culture and traditions. She translates her own interests, experiences and influences into her artwork which she calls ‘Wallscapes'. U.U Pfister says: I'm investigating balance and harmony between textures, geometric shapes and light. The effect is achieved by reworking the canvas applying a variety of materials e.g. various paints, textiles, clay etc., building up and taking away layers, letting areas of earlier work show through. Juxtaposing textures, pattern shapes, and lines, contrasting shades of white, showing little colour to intensify light.' (U.U Pfister 2010) Alice Dass is on a journey of discovery into her body — a body which is being altered and corrupted by Multiple Sclerosis. However, her investigation is not forensic, yet her practice is one of looking at things differently. As further deterioration occurs, Alice Dass investigates the particular lack of function intellectually, resulting in her being compelled to create a piece of work representing this loss both light-heartedly and with beauty. Having trained in the 1960's as a textile artist, beads and embroidery are component parts of some of her collaged pieces, and text, too, is presented decoratively as well as informatively.